UAE Launches New Government Authority — and It’s Fully Run by Citizens
A first-of-its-kind community-led authority puts skilled Emiratis in charge, as the UAE tests a bold new way to govern.
The UAE is shaking things up in government — and this time, the community is running the show.
President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has announced the launch of the Community-Managed Virtual Authority, a brand-new government model fully led and managed by skilled citizens. It’s a major shift in how public authorities work — and a big moment for participatory governance in the country.
The announcement comes as the Year of Community 2025 wraps up, setting the tone for what comes next.
A Government Authority, Run by the Community
This new authority flips the traditional government structure on its head. Instead of long-term officials, qualified members of the UAE community will take full responsibility for running the authority, including decision-making and execution.
Leadership roles — including a Director General and team members — will be assigned for fixed terms. Once their term ends, a new group steps in, bringing fresh ideas and new energy.
The goal? Build practical, meaningful projects that actually make a difference for people living in the UAE.
Who Can Lead It?
The selection process is flexible but merit-based. Leaders will be chosen based on skills, experience, and their ability to deliver real impact — not titles or seniority.
The authority is open to a wide range of Emiratis, including:
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Experts and specialists
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Professionals and academics
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Youth and entrepreneurs
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Retirees with deep experience
Each group contributes where they know best, creating a mix of perspectives that doesn’t usually happen in government settings.
What Will the Authority Actually Do?
The focus is on action, not paperwork.
The authority will design initiatives, programs, and ready-to-launch solutions based on what the community actually needs. Think ideas that are innovative, practical, and built to be implemented — not just discussed.
Everything is driven by real-world challenges and aspirations from people on the ground.
Rotating Leaders, No Lost Momentum
Even with leadership rotating, projects won’t stall. The authority will run on clear frameworks, approved policies, and structured handover systems to make sure knowledge and progress are passed on smoothly.
In short: new leaders, same momentum.
A Global First in Governance
This is the first time a public authority is being fully managed by the community within a formal government framework.
By trusting citizens to lead, the UAE is positioning itself as a testing ground for future government models — one that puts people, skills, and collaboration at the center.
It’s a bold move, and one that could redefine how governments and communities work together.